Is Ngari Road Safe to Travel?
Think sacred Mount Kailash, a holy peak for multiple religions; crystal-clear Lake Manasarovar, one of Tibet's most revered lakes; the mysterious Guge Kingdom Ruins, with their ancient stone structures telling stories of the past; and the otherworldly Zanda Clay Forest, where wind and time have carved the land into unique, wave-like formations. These spots are bucket-list worthy, but I know what you're thinking: "Is the road to Ngari safe?" Let's break it down honestly, so you can plan your trip with confidence—and if you want a stress-free journey, our Tibet travel agency has years of experience getting travelers to Ngari safely.
Road Conditions: By Season & Route
Winter (November to March) is not ideal for a Ngari road trip. High-altitude roads around Mount Kailash and the Gerze-Nyima section often get heavy snow and ice—even with snow chains, black ice can make roads slippery and dangerous. Nighttime temperatures drop well below freezing, and some mountain passes might close suddenly due to bad weather. Save winter for Lhasa's cozy monasteries and skip Ngari then!
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September to October) are best time to visit Ngari—these are the safest, most stable months for Ngari travel. The weather is mostly dry, with clear skies and milder temperatures. Most main roads are in great shape, but let's talk about the two key routes.
The Lhasa-Ngari South Route (G219 National Highway), which goes through Shigatse, Saga, and Zhongba is the most mature, well-maintained road to Ngari—most of it is smooth asphalt, perfect for regular tour vehicles. The only things to watch for: some sections near Zhongba sit above 5,000 meters, so take it slow to avoid altitude sickness, and phone signal can be spotty in remote areas.
Then there's the Ngari North Route (Nyima-Gerze-Geji). This one's more remote—parts are still gravel roads with potholes. This route takes more time to reach Ngari and supply points are few and far between. It's beautiful, but it needs more planning.
Summer (June to August) is monsoon season—heavy rains can turn parts of the South Route into muddy messes. Small landslides are possible and may lead to temporary road closures.
Also, let's talk about altitude. Ngari's average altitude is over 4,500 meters—higher than Lhasa! Spend 2-3 days in Lhasa first to acclimate before heading to Ngari. Our agency's Ngari tours always include a slow acclimation plan, so you don't have to worry about getting sick halfway.
Conclusion
Traveling to Ngari is a rewarding adventure that combines natural beauty, spiritual significance, and unique cultural experiences. While the journey requires careful planning and preparation, the roads to Ngari are well-traveled and generally safe, especially during the spring and autumn seasons.
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35 Comment ON "Is Ngari Road Safe to Travel?"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash